Best Time to Visit Nepal

So you have finally made up your mind and want to take that once-in-a-lifetime trip to Nepal but are now left with one question: 

When is the best time to visit Nepal? 

The answer to this question depends on the experiences you want to get out of your trip.

Luckily, we have created a detailed guide to help you understand the best times to visit the Himalayas for different types of adventures.

Best Time to Visit Nepal for Trekking, Sightseeing and Select Festivals

Nepal's weather plays a crucial part in the activities that take place. That is why late September to November is considered the best time for anyone who wants to engage in multiple activities including trekking, sightseeing, and festivities.

During these months, the weather is generally warm, not hot enough to cause discomfort. The skies are also clear making for excellent lighting in case you want to go sightseeing and take photos or videos.

It is worth pointing out that October to November is Nepal’s peak season so you”ll be sharing different trekking routes with other tourists.

Famous routes located around Mt. Everest is often the most hectic. However, you can still find remote or less crowded hiking routes if you visit other parts of the country.

October happens to be the month of the Dashain festival which mostly involves local families. If you want something more accessible to tourists, consider the festival of lights known as Tihar. 

It happens a few weeks after Dashain. It is often characterized by a mesmerizing display of lights and rangoli decorations in homes and business premises.

Kathmandu and Pokhara are two of the best regions to visit for Tihar. This festival takes place in November so you should be ready to enjoy a stunning show of fireworks and immerse yourself in a celebration of Hindu culture.

Best Time for Off-Season Low Altitude Trekking

Winter in Nepal presents a good opportunity to enjoy low-altitude trekking routes. These usually fall below 2,500 meters (8202 ft) above sea level. 

The season falls between December and February. At this time, there are generally lower numbers of visitors so most places will be empty and prices of goods and services will be delightfully affordable.

Winter days in the cities are surprisingly warm. However, if you decide to hike to higher altitudes, be sure to bring along protective clothing as the weather can get cold and there are also chances of encountering snow.

Best Time for Wildlife Spotting in the Himalayas 

While the majestic mountains, tall trees, lakes and rivers offer plenty of incentive to visit Nepal, they are not the only things you can find. The country has a rich array of wildlife too.

National parks such as Chitwan and Bardia are among the best places to visit if you want to get a glimpse of animals such as rhinos, moose, bears, and royal Bengal tigers.

January and February, which marks the end of winter, is the best time to visit Nepal for wildlife. At this time, most locals are allowed to cut down the high elephant grass which often gets in the way of spotting animals.

These months are also perfect because they have a good balance in weather temperatures. Different parks have a variety of animals with some species being in abundance in specific areas.

Find out about the different parks and the animals they have before you make your pick.

Best Time for Mountain Climbing

If you are thinking of a mountain climbing adventure, spring would be your best bet. The season falls between March and May so plan accordingly.

During these months, the temperature is mild. Not too hot and not too cold so you can easily get to climbing without having to worry too much about the temperatures.

Again spring presents good climbing conditions because the ground is not too muddy and slippery. In case you are unable to make it in spring, aim for early autumn which is late September and October.

Keep in mind there are a variety of mountains in this region with varying conditions. Talk to your travel agency about the regions you will visit to ensure you have the right information about the landscape, climate and the climbing gear required.

Best Time to Visit Nepal for Festivals

If you love festivals and celebrations of culture, spring is the season for you. It starts in late February and continues up to April.

It is considered Nepal’s second peak season as it makes it possible for people to engage in a range of activities. However, the biggest attraction is the festivals.

The Shivaratri festival happens in February and is characterized by thousands of devotees visiting the Pashupatinath temple to worship Lord Shiva. It's exciting to witness the light decorations that are put up throughout the temple. 

The Holi festival takes place in March and is a celebration of colors. You’ll get to watch people around the country playing with multi-colored powder. At night many light bonfires and dance or socialize around it.

The festival includes splashing powder and colored water balloons on each other. The Patan’s Rato Machhendranath festival crowns the festivities in April.

Most of the festivals happen in the cities so you should probably not make plans to visit the mountains during that time.

Best Time for Kayaking and Rafting 

If you love kayaking and rafting, autumn is the ideal season for you to visit the country. Plan your trip for anything between October to November.

During this time, the weather is immaculate. Calm breeze over water bodies, warm water and clear skies.

The water levels are also at optimal levels because autumn comes right after the monsoon season. You can customize your adventure to include hiking and sightseeing as the days are clear and most mountain peaks are visible.

Best Time to Visit Hot Water Springs

Hot water springs are another standout feature of the Himalayas. Many visit them to quench their curiosity and to enjoy the benefits associated with taking baths in them.

These springs are available in different regions of the country and so you can be sure that climate variations will determine the best time to visit.

For instance, the Singha hot spring can be excellent from mid-October to May. On the other hand, the Myagdi natural springs have different pools with varying water temperatures making it possible for people to visit all year round.

Best Time to Visit Nepal for a Honeymoon

If you are about to tie the knot and are looking for a romantic getaway, the Himalayas can be a good destination. Most honeymoon spots in Nepal are open to guests all year round.

However, the best time to go is October to November and February to April. The said periods offer the best conditions for you and your partner to enjoy some of the most romantic spots on earth.